Stones or calculi are small deposits of crystal-forming substances that cannot filter out through the excretory system. They usually deposit in the kidneys, ureter, or bladder, causing renal problems if left untreated for long. The smaller stones can enter the ureter and finally the bladder before getting flushed out via urine. Ureters are the long, pipe-like structures that collect the urine and other wastes from the kidneys to the bladder. Doctors usually recommend drinking plenty of fluids, light exercise, and painkillers for stones to pass naturally. But what happens if the stone is large and does not budge?

Larger stones cause more severe pain in the renal pelvis and cannot move through the ureters. Urologists may recommend surgery for stone removal or crushing the stones into smaller pieces through sound waves. The crushing allows the smaller stone pieces to pass through the ureters, and finally, they pass through the urine out of the body. However, the suitability of medical treatment depends on the stone size, its position in the excretory system, and the type. Crystal deposits can be of calcium salts, uric acid, or other minerals.